As the IPL 2025 Mega Auction approaches, all eyes will be on Mumbai Indians (MI), one of the most successful franchises in the tournament’s history. With five IPL titles to their name, MI is known for its shrewd acquisitions and tactical depth. The team enters the 2025 auction with a remaining purse of ₹45 crore, following their strategic retention of key players. This article explores the likely targets Mumbai Indians could pursue in the auction, along with their predicted playing XI.
Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2025 Retention List
Mumbai Indians have retained their core group of players, ensuring they have a solid foundation for the upcoming season. The retained players are:
- Rohit Sharma (₹16.30 crore)
- Jasprit Bumrah (₹18 crore)
- Suryakumar Yadav (₹16.35 crore)
- Hardik Pandya (₹16.35 crore)
- Tilak Varma (₹8 crore)
These players are expected to be central to Mumbai’s strategy, and their experience and skill will form the backbone of the team. With these key players retained, MI will now focus on strengthening their squad by filling the remaining slots in the mega auction.
Mumbai Indians’ Key Targets in IPL 2025 Auction
Given MI’s remaining purse of ₹45 crore, the franchise is in a strong position to make bold moves at the auction. With several spots up for grabs, Mumbai is likely to target players who can add depth in batting, strengthen the bowling unit, and provide solid all-round options. Let’s take a closer look at the key players MI might pursue.
1. Jos Buttler (Wicketkeeper-Batter)
One of the most destructive players in T20 cricket, Jos Buttler is a perfect fit for MI’s opening slot. With the departure of Ishan Kishan, MI will be on the lookout for a top-order batter who can play explosively from the start. Buttler’s IPL experience and ability to dominate from the outset could provide the much-needed firepower at the top, alongside Rohit Sharma.
Alternatively, Phil Salt could also be a strong contender for the opening role. Known for his aggressive batting style, Salt played a significant role in Kolkata Knight Riders’ triumph in IPL 2024.
2. David Miller (Finisher)
To bolster their lower middle order, MI might target David Miller, the South African powerhouse who has established himself as one of the best finishers in T20 cricket. His experience in finishing games under pressure could be invaluable for MI. Positioned at No.6, Miller’s ability to clear the boundary consistently would strengthen the team’s batting depth.
3. Wanindu Hasaranga / Washington Sundar (Spin-Allrounder)
MI has always valued spin-bowling all-rounders, and both Wanindu Hasaranga and Washington Sundar are potential targets. Hasaranga’s ability to turn the ball and his wicket-taking ability in the middle overs make him a valuable asset, while Sundar’s batting capabilities and control in the middle overs could provide balance.
4. Yuzvendra Chahal (Leg-Spinner)
A proven performer in the IPL, Yuzvendra Chahal could fill the void of a quality leg-spinner in the MI lineup. With his experience and ability to pick crucial middle-overs wickets, Chahal would add immense value to Mumbai’s spin department, making him a potential target in the auction.
5. Gerald Coetzee (Pace-Bowling Allrounder)
Gerald Coetzee has shown promise as a pace-bowling all-rounder, capable of contributing with both the ball and bat. His ability to extract bounce and pace could make him a perfect fit for MI’s pace attack. If re-signed, Coetzee could add crucial depth to Mumbai’s lower order as well.
6. Arshdeep Singh (Pacer)
Arshdeep Singh’s stellar performances for Punjab Kings and his standout role as India’s top wicket-taker in the T20 World Cup 2024 have made him a highly sought-after prospect. MI could look to secure his services to partner with Jasprit Bumrah in the pace department, providing a deadly fast-bowling duo.
Predicted Playing XI for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025
Based on the likely targets in the auction, here’s a predicted playing XI for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025:
- Rohit Sharma (Captain) – Opening batter
- Jos Buttler / Phil Salt (Overseas) – Opening batter
- Suryakumar Yadav – Middle-order batter
- Tilak Varma – Middle-order batter
- Hardik Pandya – All-rounder
- David Miller (Overseas) – Middle-order batter
- Wanindu Hasaranga / Washington Sundar (Overseas) – All-rounder
- Gerald Coetzee (Overseas) – Pace-bowling all-rounder
- Yuzvendra Chahal – Leg-spinner
- Jasprit Bumrah – Pace bowler
- Arshdeep Singh – Pace bowler
Key Strategies for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025 Auction
- Top-order firepower: Securing a big-hitting opener like Jos Buttler or Phil Salt will be essential for providing early momentum in powerplays.
- Middle-order stability: With Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma already in place, MI will look to strengthen their middle-order further with David Miller as a finisher and a quality spinner like Hasaranga or Chahal.
- Pace attack depth: Having a strong pace attack is vital for MI’s success. Jasprit Bumrah needs a solid partner like Arshdeep Singh to take wickets in the powerplay and at the death.
- Spin attack balance: The addition of Yuzvendra Chahal or Wanindu Hasaranga would give MI a solid spin option, providing variety in the middle overs and increasing their chances of taking wickets.
Conclusion
With the IPL 2025 mega auction just around the corner, Mumbai Indians have the perfect opportunity to build a squad capable of clinching their sixth IPL title. The key to their success will be in strengthening the top order, securing middle-order depth, and adding quality spinners and pacers to their squad. By making the right moves, MI can further enhance their chances of dominating the IPL once again.
